| nathan@tenevents.co.nz | |
| Geraldine, South Island, New Zealand | |
| http://www.springchallenge.co.nz/ | |
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Geraldine will be hosting the 11th Torpedo 7 Spring Challenge, all women adventure race.
Spring Challenge is one of the gems of New Zealand adventure racing, where450 teams of three women take part in the adventure that includes rafting, mountain biking, hiking and orienteering.
The event first began in 2007 in the village of Hanmer Springs with 327 women entering, making it the highest participated adventure race in NZ at the time. The following year in Kaikoura 600 women took part. The event continued to grow as it toured to Nelson Lakes National Park, Motueka, Marlborough, Methven. In 2013 the event was held in Gibbston (Queenstown) with 960 entrants. Hokitika 2014 hosted 1050 and the largest field to date was Wanaka in 2015 with 1260 entrants. Golden Bay was the biggest yet with 1350-taking part.
3-hour (beginner) – Introduction to Adventure Racing. Rafting, non-technical mountain biking, trail and easy off-trail hiking – a bit of a challenge but nothing too silly. Navigation is basic level. Time range 3 to 6 hours.
6-hour (intermediate) – Something to get your teeth into. Rafting, mostly non-technical mountain biking but can have a few rugged bits linking the course together – walking with bike an option in these sections if you're a bit of a Nana (or officially a Nana). Hiking mostly can be on and off trails, can contain rough ground to pass over, slippery stuff, cow poos, stream crossings. Navigation is intermediate level, map and compass knowledge needed. (Unless you trust the team in front of you and you tuck in behind them). Time range 6 to 12-hours.
9-hour (advanced) – The epic version of the Spring Challenge, expect a mission! Time range 9 to 20-hours.